The mission of the Dogwood Center for the Performing Arts is to be a creative force and community resource providing cultural experiences for Newaygo County and surrounding areas.

The opening of the $7 million dollar facility in July 2002 was a fulfillment of a dream that began with Dan and Dorothy Gerber.Scotti Merrill, the Gerber’s daughter, and long-time family friend Ted Johnson spearheaded the effort by forming the Art Center for Newaygo County, a non-profit organization dedicated to planning, building, and maintaining the Dogwood Center.Through grants from the Fremont Area Community Foundation and very generous gifts from community members, the Dogwood Center now is an incredible cultural venue and resource for the entire area.